Built by Educators. Driven by Conservation.

About Us

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since 1994

A Different Approach to Travel

EcoTeach was founded by teachers on a simple idea: the most meaningful learning happens outside the classroom. Since 1994, we’ve designed immersive travel programs that connect people to ecosystems, cultures, and conservation efforts around the world.

Over the years, EcoTeach has supported turtle research programs, educational efforts, and local communities. In 2026, EcoTeach was acquired by SEE Turtles, a conservation nonprofit and longtime partner. This will strengthen EcoTeach's commitment to conservation and ensure all profits go to support our mission.

“I don’t know of any other company in Costa Rica that does the things we regularly do here. I don’t have any doubt it’s harder work than leading commercial tours. What we do is special.”

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Carlos “Pika” Viquez

Operations Director
high quality education

Why book a learning excursion with EcoTeach

Scientific Expertise

Many of our guides are trained biologists and researchers. You might track humpback whale migrations with Frank Garita, or learn sustainable agriculture from organic farming expert Marcos García Guzman.

Safety First

Every single guide is certified in emergency first-aid and certified as an official guide by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, meeting the highest standards of student safety.

Cultural Bridges

Our local guides provide the translation, both linguistic and cultural, that help your students truly connect with the region.

Our state-side team

Your Logistics & Planning Partners

While our local team leads the adventure, our US-based team handles the pre-trip planning and in-country logistical support. While your group is traveling we are on standby to make sure your international travel is smooth and safe.

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Kristin Breen

Conservation Travel Manager

Kristin will ensure that your trip is seamless, from preparing a proposal for your group, to coordinating registrations and logistics. She will get your group prepared to travel and be available for any questions and concerns that come up.

Kristin has experience working with nonprofits, state government, and political campaigns. She received a BA in government from the College of William & Mary and an MPA from Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

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Brad Nahill

SEE Turtles President

As the President of SEE Turtles, Brad ensures that every trip delivers measurable environmental impact. Brad co-founded SEE Turtles and has collaborated with EcoTeach since 1999. He has been working at the intersection of conservation and travel for more than two decades and has been recognized with awards from Travel + Leisure, the World Tourism & Travel Council, & others.

Under his leadership, the transition to our new conservation-first model integrates "Conservation Impact Pricing," ensuring your trip directly funds the protection of nesting beaches and local communities.

Our Costa rica partners

Local Roots, Global Standards

Our ground operations are managed entirely by Herencia Verde, led by our long-time partner Carlos "Pika" Viquez, and supported by Gabriela Morales.

Logistics and program development in Costa Rica are handled by the staff of Herencia Verde. They have built and maintain relationships with community contacts, hotels, restaurants, and activities to ensure that your travels run as smoothly as possible.

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Carlos “Pika” Viquez

Operations Director

As a native Costa Rican growing up on a farm, Carlos Viquez brings a wealth of personal experience to his partnership with EcoTeach.  Pika—as his friends know him—started leading naturalist tours in 1994 at the suggestion of a college friend majoring in tourism. He started taking classes offered at the Universidad Nacionál, and working on various research projects related to mammal behavior and bats. Then in 1997 Pika began guiding for EcoTeach, and in August of 2008 – after more than 10 years as a guide – took over the Costa Rica operations of Herencia Verde.

“ I don’t know of any other company in Costa Rica that does the things we regularly do here. I don’t have any doubt it’s harder work than leading commercial tours. What we do is special.”

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Gabriela Morales G.

Reservations & Program Manager

Gaby grew up in Santa Barbara, a beautiful district north of the city of Flores in Heredia Province. Since she was very young, Gaby has been interested in social sciences. She has worked with various service and media communication companies in human relations and has continued to learn and develop professionally in this field.  In 2005, she graduated with two licenses in Human Relations as well as Economic and Social Planning from the National University. In 2008, she began working with the company that she says "has changed her life."

“...The work and help the groups bring to the projects when they visit us creates the opportunity to make important changes for the environment; positively effects the lives of many people; and helps to maintain Costa Rica as a place of “Pura Vida.”

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Supporting Local Partners

We believe conservation must be community-led. That is why we prioritize working with locally-owned lodges and projects rather than foreign-owned chains.

why choose us

Expertly Planned. Purposefully Designed.

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30+ Years of Experience
Over 25,000 travelers since 1994.
Nonprofit Integrity
All profits now support global sea turtle conservation.
Teacher Support
We’ve been in your shoes—we know what 
you need for school board approval.
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